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Application period for Behavioral Health Internship Stipend Program opens Aug. 17

Students who commit to providing services to children in Michigan after graduation can receive up to $15,000

LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) continues its efforts to increase access to behavioral health services by again offering a stipend program to student interns in Michigan enrolled in accredited behavioral health bachelor’s or master’s degree programs. To qualify for this latest round of funding, applicants must commit to seeking employment that provides services to children upon graduating.

“By helping future behavioral health professionals gain hands-on experience in communities across Michigan, we are laying the groundwork for a stronger, more accessible behavioral health system,” said Amy Epkey, MDHHS acting director. “Nearly 500 students have benefitted already from this program, which will increase access to care for Michigan families for years to come.”

The Behavioral Health Internship Stipend Program provides up to $15,000 to students who have obtained a qualifying unpaid internship to cover costs such as tuition, fees, books and living expenses. Students pursuing degrees for any of the following behavioral health professions are eligible: marriage or family therapist, behavior analyst, social worker, professional counselor or psychologist. Students receive a one-time stipend in the amount of $5,000, $10,000 or $15,000 depending on how many hours their internship requires.

MDHHS has allocated $1.25 million for the program, which could benefit up to 73 interns depending on how much funding the students qualify for during the program.

Applicants must be enrolled in an accredited degree program within the United States and have an approved internship in Michigan that meets the stipend program requirements. Participants will take part in program surveys and evaluation activities. A commitment to seeking employment in Michigan’s behavioral health sector providing services to children after graduation is also required.

The application period begins Monday, Aug. 17, and applicants must complete an online form and submit necessary documentation by Monday, Aug. 31. Applicants will receive an email notification of their acceptance status within six weeks of the application deadline.

For more information and to apply, visit the Behavioral Health Internship Stipend Program website.

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